Pocket Knife Perfection: CRKT Pilar III Review
There are two distinct types of individuals in the world: those who carry a pocket knife and those who do not. From my experience, once the non-carriers have a taste of the usefulness of a knife. They quickly join the knife-carrying team without looking back. Selecting a pocket knife for daily use can be overwhelming for a newbie due to the various features, materials & capabilities available.
If you’re new to the world of pocket knives and need assistance in selecting the perfect one for daily use, we have got you covered. Our top pick for the best pocket knife is the Pilar III from CRKT. Its practical and straightforward enough for inexperienced knife wielders to handle, yet its built with enough know-how to keep die-hard enthusiasts satisfied.
As someone who has had their fair share of pocket knives, including my grandfather’s Swiss Army Knife that I used as a child to whittle sticks, I appreciate a simple design. Often, seemingly simple items have undergone a great deal of background engineering. I took the CRKT Pilar III with me everywhere for a week and here is my review.
Straight out of the box, the first thing that caught my eye about the third iteration of the Pilar was its unique appearance. It’s clean and curvy lines make it stand out from the rest and provide it with a hand feel that is both capable and creative. The fine point on the D2 steel blade is an upgrade from the almost axe-like blade of the Pilar II and was useful when opening packages. I found myself using the knife even when scissors would have been the better choice; removing tags from clothing, cutting cords, and dismantling my Amazon packages was more enjoyable with the Pilar III.
In terms of useful features, Pilar III has plenty to offer. The IKBS ball bearing pivot ensures smooth opening and closing, and the high-carbon stainless steel blade is easy to sharpen. The G10 with stainless steel handle feels & looks durable, while the frame lock feels secure during use. Although there is a thumb slot for easy one-handed openings. I found myself opening blade with two hands more often than not. Those who are more experienced with a knife (or have larger hands) may find the thumb slot more useful than I did during testing.
I found myself using the pocket clip more frequently than I anticipated. Taking the knife with me on hikes and runs made me feel safer when alone & the clip is secure enough that I did not have to worry about losing the blade during runs.
CRKT’s Pilar III strikes a perfect balance between modernity and history, with urban styling and nostalgia serving as inspiration for the blade’s look and feel. The original Pilar was designed by Jesper Voxnaes in his Logstrup, Denmark shop and named after Ernest Hemingway’s beloved boat during World War II. The boat was used to monitor German U-boats in the Caribbean. Despite its storied history, the knife itself belongs very much in the 21st century and I used it in my daily life as though I’d had it for years.
The only drawback I’ve encountered with this rekindled love for blades is getting to the TSA checkpoint at the airport and realizing that I still have it in my pocket. So, if you are in the market for an excellent pocket knife, the CRKT Pilar III is a great choice that won’t disappoint.
| Recommended Uses for Product | Fighting, Everyday Carry |
| Brand | CRKT |
| Official Website | Click Here… |
| Model Name | 5317 |
| Special Feature | Foldable, Locking Blades |
| Age Range (Description) | Adult |
| Included Components | CRKT 5317 PILAR® III BLACK |
| Handle Material | Fiberglass |
| Color | Pilar 3 |
| Blade Material | Stainless Steel |
| Style | Pilar III |
CRKT Pilar III
Bottom Line
CRKT Pilar III is the perfect pocket knife for everyday use, striking balance between practicality and style. Designed by Jesper Voxnaes, this knife features a unique, and eye-catching design with clean and curvy lines that make it both capable and creative. The high-carbon, stainless steel blade is easy to sharpen and the G10 with stainless steel handle feels bombproof. The frame lock adds an extra layer of security during use & pocket clip allows for easy and safe carrying during outdoor activities. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned knife enthusiast, the CRKT Pilar III is a reliable, and versatile choice.
FAQ
Where is the CRKT Pilar 3 made?
If you are wondering about the origin of the CRKT Pilar III you’re not alone. Some people want to know where this impressive pocket knife is made. The good news is that the Pilar III is proudly designed in Denmark by Jesper Voxnaes, a renowned knife designer. Manufacturing of the knife takes place in China. Despite being made in China, the CRKT Pilar III is a high-quality pocket knife that offers exceptional performance, style, and durability. Whether you are a seasoned knife enthusiast or a beginner, Pilar III is an excellent choice for everyday carry, and its unique blend of practicality and design make it a popular choice among knife users worldwide.
What size knife is best for EDC?
For EDC purposes, a compact & lightweight knife with a blade length of 2.5 to 3.5 inches is ideal. It should be small enough to fit in your pocket but large enough to handle everyday cutting tasks with ease. A straight/combination edge is great for general cutting, while a serrated edge is better for tougher materials.
What is the best pocket knife on the market?
It’s difficult to pinpoint the “best” pocket knife on the market as it ultimately depends on personal preferences and needs. There are some well-regarded brands such as Benchmade, Spyderco and Kershaw that offer high-quality knives with various blade types, handle materials and locking mechanisms to choose from. Its important to consider factors like blade length, edge type and intended use when selecting a pocket knife.
